Indiana University SOM Global Outreach Pathology Observership
Indianapolis, Indiana · Observership
Always confirm details on the official institution page before applying. Requirements, fees, and deadlines can change.
About this program
Indiana University School of Medicine runs a four-week pathology observership for international and US physicians who want direct exposure to an academic diagnostic lab and its subspecialty services. The program is administered by the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine under Program Director Muhammad Idrees, MD, and applicants submit through a single Qualtrics portal open annually from January 1 to March 1, with acceptance decisions released in April. Applicants must provide an updated medical CV, a medical school transcript (translated into English if needed), both USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 scores, and a headshot. Incomplete applications are not reviewed. Once accepted, observers have seven days to sign and return the invitation letter, and schedules arrive one week before start. During the four weeks, observers participate in clinical and didactic laboratory experiences and may request specific subspecialties. The department is explicit that observers may request letters of recommendation from attendings with whom they have worked, which is especially useful for IMGs preparing a residency application. There is no application fee and no stipend; observers are responsible for their own lodging, travel, meals, and visa logistics.
Quick highlights
Strong points
- Verified direct sourceAudited URL — no platform middleman, no scraped data
- Tier-A recommendedFlagged as a top program in our directory
- Stipend-payingReceives a paid stipend (rare for IMG observerships)
- Multi-specialty (16+)Placement available across multiple clinical departments
Watch for
- USMLE Step requiredUSMLE Step 1 and Step 2 scores required with application
- No visa sponsorshipINTL applicants must self-arrange B-1/B-2 visitor visa
Fees, duration & what it costs
What's included
- 4 weeks of structured clinical experience
- Placement in your chosen specialty across 16 departments
- Direct supervision by attending faculty
- Rounds, case discussions, and bedside teaching participation
- Letter of recommendation eligibility (attending discretion)
How to apply
- Identify a faculty host or coordinator at the program.Many IMG observerships require a faculty sponsor BEFORE you can apply. Use the contact email in the sidebar.
- Submit your application packet directly to the program.Typical packet: CV, USMLE scores or ECFMG certificate, letter of intent, proof of funding, immunizations, and (for INTL) translated medical license.
- Pay any required application or program fee.Many programs charge a non-refundable application fee + per-rotation program fee. See the cost tile above for this program's specific amounts.
- Complete pre-arrival paperwork and visa coordination.Most IMG observerships do not sponsor educational visas — applicants travel on B-1/B-2 visitor status. Confirm before booking travel.
Available specialties
Eligibility requirements
International or US physicians; both USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 scores required; medical students ineligible.
USMLE / COMLEX: USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 scores required with application
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